Chapter 136

The Brassington is a five-minute walk from the house and isn’t usually open on Sunday mornings. I’m not the kind of guy who normally takes advantage of my wealth and influence, but today is far from normal. A quick conversation with the owner ensured it would be open and ready, the kitchen staffed, and the drinks flowing. The place is set up like an English country club, all dark wood paneling and bookcases and top-shelf liquor. It’s exactly what I need today. Anything brighter would feel too cheerful and make me want to puke. This is the first time I’ve ever sent a 911 message to my family, but by the time I walk into the private room at the back, they’re all there. Just like I knew they’d be. Maddox, my youngest brother, is dressed in baggy sweatpants and a faded T-shirt covered in Sanskrit writing. Drake is reading the Times, a coffee on the table in front of him, his hair still damp from the shower, just like mine. Nathan immediately looks up from his phone, his dark eyes flashing